I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in literature and linguistics. My daily schedule consists of papers, texts, novels, models, studies, and written responses. A regular day includes reading a minimum of 100 or so pages of academic text for one class and another 20 for a different class. I dedicate myself to the study of semantics and syntax. I question everything I can about the English language and try to look for differences or similarities in other languages as well. I formulate arguments and strive to strengthen my writing process. I outline, draft, edit, and proofread at least 2 papers a week. By the end of the day, words have dominated my mind, leaving little room for anything else. When the stress starts to tighten my shoulders and my mind stops generating words, I take out my cello and start playing. I turn off one part of my brain and instead focus on the pressure of the bow, the frequency of my vibrato, and the positioning of my hands. I follow the directions of the composer and of my own. Whether this means playing out in a solo or maintaining the tempo in orchestra, the making and results are always rewarding. Words are no longer needed. The music carries the meanings and feelings instead. This activity not only allows me a break from words, but enhances my understanding of storytelling through a different medium. Playing with other musicians lets me connect and reach an understanding that words cannot describe. I have many fond memories learning a piece together with other cellists or in a string quartet. We would laugh and lean into the challenge, playing for ourselves and each other. Yet, when the performance or gig comes, we remember the audience, hoping to connect directly. The audience’s reaction – whether it be humming along, tapping their feet to the beat, or getting up from their chairs to dance – never gets old. No matter who I am playing for, I always come away feeling better and hope anyone who listens does as well. This is a skill I am going to maintain for life. Cello has become so ingrained in my daily life that I cannot imagine myself without it. It is a constant activity which has pushed me through middle school, high school, and now in college. It is a skill that always pushes me to grow both musically, and as a person. I’ve become a better storyteller and an artist since picking it up for the first time.